“Bellyboat” fisherman drowns in US state park

A fisherman has reportedly drowned in a freak accident involving a popular “bellyboat” used for fishing.

The incident occurred at Steamboat Lake State Park in the American state of Colorado.

So-called bellyboats are u-shaped inflatable flotation devices that a user wears rather than sits in. The device allows fishermen to venture out into deeper waters where wading is impossible.

According to a notice published by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the victim apparently became entangled upside down in the device and drowned. CPW was called to the scene after other visitors reported an overturned watercraft in the lake.

“When park rangers responded to investigate, they found a person submerged underwater, secured to the bellyboat with a safety strap that was part of the inflatable,” the agency said. “Park rangers removed the victim from the water, where they were pronounced dead on the scene.”

The victim’s identity had not been released at press time.

CPW says it’s still investigating but noted that conditions at the lake were windy with strong wind gusts recorded on the day of the tragic accident.

The victim was not wearing a life vest, CPW noted.

“We continue to urge everyone to pay close attention to weather conditions and to wear a [personal flotation device] while recreating on the water,” said park ranger David Goff.